Family of Phoenix man suspected in Texas shooting issues statement

PHOENIX — The family of Elton Simpson issued as statement through a Phoenix law firm after Sunday night’s shooting in Garland, Texas.

“We send our prayers to everyone affected by this act of senseless violence, especially the security guard who was injured in the line of duty. As a family we do not condone violence and proudly support the men and women of our law enforcement agencies. We are sure many people in this country are curious to know if we had any idea of Elton’s plans. To that we say, without question, we did not.

“Just like everyone in our beautiful country, we are struggling to understand how this could happen. We will not make further statements. We are heartbroken and in a state of deep shock as we grieve. We humbly request that everyone respect our need for privacy.”

Simpson is one of two men from Phoenix who are suspected of opening fire with assault rifles outside a building where a contest featuring cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad was being held. A security guard was struck in the leg, but an officer who was working security detail for the event shot and killed both Simpson and Nadir Soofi with a pistol.